Tuesday, April 08, 2008

Tea - Licorice Root

You might be hard pressed to believe that this tangled mess is edible - but indeed it is. These are dried Licorice (or Liquorice) roots and are used to make tea.

The health properties associated with Licorice are well documented - it contains a natural expectorant so it can help soothe coughs and colds; it offers digestive relief by decreasing the amount of stomach acid and can help reduce stress and anxiety.

However, there are concerns with taking licorice in large doses or on a frequent basis as it can cause blood pressure to rise - if you have high blood pressure or are pregnant you should probably give it a miss but always check with your doctor to make sure.

If you are feeling a bit queasy or perhaps a cold is coming on, then a soothing cup of licorice root tea should make you feel better.

One or Two sticks depending on size is all you need - let them brew for a few minutes before drinking.

You shouldn't expect the commercial licorice flavour that we associate with modern day sweets as they are flavoured using aniseed rather than a product of the licorice plant.

The tea has a more woody, resinous flavouring to begin with which then finishes with a pleasant and distinctive sweetness.

This sounds so soothing---and perfect for me, I have asthma and frequently get brochitis, as well as chronic stomach problems AND low-blood pressure (that's the first time in my life I've ever said those things with such excitement)! Thanks for the info!

Hello:I had been searching in vain for a website that actually showed licorice root as a whole root and also explained how to make the tea. This is the only site I could find the exact pictures and directions I needed. Thanks so much. I'm off to make my tea, and share your site with others on my discussion group.Be Blessed - Maria/http//www.traditionalcook.com